US relationship with Pakistan essential in fight against terrorism: White House

WASHINGTON: The US relationship with Pakistan, though "complicated and difficult at time", is essential for the fight against terrorism, the White House has said.

"We believe our relationship with Pakistan is essential to fighting terrorism and terrorists, fighting al-Qaeda. That's why we work hard on that relationship even though it is complicated and difficult at times," White House Press Secretary Jay Carney said.

"We also make no apologies for the need to go after terrorists, members of al-Qaeda, wherever they are. That is certainly true about the mission to eliminate Osama bin Laden," Carney said.

His remarks came yesterday in response to a question at his daily news conference.

Admitting that there are issues that create tension, Carney said: "We engage with the Pakistanis to discuss these issues all the time. But the relationship is important and, obviously, fighting terrorism is important."